MBBS in New Zealand for Indian Students - Eligibility, Colleges & Fees

Thinking about studying medicine abroad but not sure where to begin? If you’re looking for world-class education, global recognition, and a great quality of life — New Zealand might just be the destination for you.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about studying MBBS in New Zealand — including top-ranked universities, course structure, medical specialisations, job opportunities, and what kind of salary you can expect after graduation.

Let’s get started.

Why study MBBS in New Zealand?

If you’re wondering what makes New Zealand a great choice for MBBS, here’s your answer — it’s not just about stunning landscapes and a high quality of life. The country offers globally recognised medical degrees, hands-on clinical training, and a smooth path to building a career in healthcare.

Here are some solid reasons backed by facts:

1. Globally Recognised Medical Degrees: New Zealand follows the British-based medical education system. Degrees like the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) are recognised by the World Directory of Medical Schools, making it easier for graduates to work internationally, including in India (with FMGE/NExT), the UK, and Australia.

2. High-Ranked Universities for Medicine: Two of New Zealand’s top universities feature in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (Medicine):

• University of Auckland: Ranked in the Top 100 globally for Medicine

• University of Otago: Consistently ranked among the Top 150

3. International Student-Friendly: Over 120,000 international students choose New Zealand every year (Source: Education New Zealand), and healthcare is one of the growing sectors of interest. The country offers a supportive, multicultural environment with student wellbeing at its core.

4. Post-Study Work Opportunities: Medical graduates are in demand, and New Zealand makes it easier for them to stay back. You can apply for a 3-year Post Study Work Visa, and several medical roles are listed under the Green List, offering fast-track residency options.

5. Quality of Life and Safety: New Zealand is ranked among the top 10 countries globally for safety, healthcare access, and life satisfaction (Source: OECD Better Life Index). For students, this means peace of mind both in and outside the classroom.

Course structure & duration of MBBS in New Zealand

First things first — New Zealand does not offer an “MBBS” degree in the traditional sense. Instead, students pursue a degree called the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), which is the equivalent of MBBS and is globally recognised.

How long does it take?

The entire journey to becoming a doctor in New Zealand typically takes six years, broken down as follows:

Year 1: Health Sciences First Year (HSFY)

• This is a foundational year where students cover subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and population health.

• Admission into the MBChB programme is competitive, and entry is granted only to students who perform exceptionally well in this year.

Years 2 & 3: Pre-Clinical Training

• Focus shifts to medical sciences including anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, and physiology.

• Students also begin basic clinical exposure through hospital visits and case-based learning.

Years 4 to 6: Clinical Training

• These are intensive, hospital-based years.

• Students rotate through different departments such as general medicine, surgery, paediatrics, psychiatry, and emergency care.

• Clinical placements happen in teaching hospitals across New Zealand.

Key Points to Note:

• After completing six years, graduates must complete a Pre-vocational Medical Training (PGY1 & PGY2)

  under the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) before obtaining full registration.

• International students must ensure their degree is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools

  and that they meet any licensing requirements in their home country.

Top universities to study MBChB in New Zealand

New Zealand has two universities that offer the MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) — both are globally recognised and known for their research, academic rigour, and strong clinical training.

• University of Auckland

• University of Otago

• Massey University

• University of Waikato

• Victoria University of Wellington

• Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

Eligibility criteria for international students

Getting into a medical programme in New Zealand is competitive, especially for international students. Here’s what you need to qualify for the MBChB programme:

Academic Requirements

• You must complete the Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) at either the University of Auckland or University of Otago.

• This is a foundation year with subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and population health.

• Your entry into the MBChB programme is based on:

• HSFY academic performance

• Interview or Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI)

• UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) score (required at University of Auckland)

Minimum Academic Background (For Entry into HSFY)

• Completed Class 12 or equivalent with strong grades in:

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics or Mathematics

• A background in English-medium education is preferred.

English Language Proficiency

You must meet the university’s English language requirements. Typically:

• IELTS: Overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0)

_{*Note: Always check the latest requirements on the official university websites as criteria can change year to year.}

Popular medical specialisations in New Zealand

After completing the MBChB programme and your initial two years of clinical internship (PGY1 & PGY2), you can choose to specialise in a particular field of medicine. New Zealand offers structured postgraduate training pathways through the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) and various specialist colleges.

Here are some of the most popular and in-demand medical specialisations in New Zealand:

1. General Practice (GP)

• One of the most sought-after and accessible pathways for international doctors.

• High demand, especially in rural and regional areas.

2. Internal Medicine

• Covers a wide range of adult illnesses.

• Includes subspecialties like cardiology, endocrinology, nephrology, etc.

3. Surgery

• Competitive and highly respected.

• Subspecialties include general surgery, orthopaedics, cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery, etc.

4. Paediatrics

• Focused on child and adolescent healthcare.

• Strong demand across New Zealand.

5. Psychiatry

• Growing demand, especially in community mental health services.

• Suitable for those interested in behavioural sciences and therapy.

6. Anaesthesia

• Crucial for surgical procedures.

• Requires strong clinical judgment and emergency handling skills.

7. Obstetrics & Gynaecology

• Covers maternal care, childbirth, and female reproductive health.

• Structured training through the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

8. Emergency Medicine

• Fast-paced and dynamic.

• Excellent for those interested in trauma, critical care, and acute patient management.

Job opportunities after MBChB in New Zealand

Medical graduates in New Zealand enjoy strong employment prospects — both in the public healthcare system and private sector. With a rising demand for healthcare professionals, especially in rural and underserved regions, international medical graduates are highly valued.

Post-MBChB Pathway

After completing your MBChB and the required internship years (PGY1 & PGY2):

• You become eligible for general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

• You can work as a house officer, progress into a resident medical officer (RMO) role, and later apply for a specialisation through one of the recognised medical colleges.

In-Demand Medical Roles in New Zealand

• General Practitioners (GPs)

• Emergency Physicians

• Psychiatrists

• Anaesthetists

• Paediatricians

• Surgeons

• Radiologists

• Rural Health Doctors

Many of these roles appear on New Zealand’s Green List of Occupations.

Average salaries for doctors in New Zealand

_{*Note: Salaries vary based on experience, location (urban vs rural), and whether you work in public hospitals or private practice.}

Post-Study Work Rights after MBChB in New Zealand

One of the key advantages of studying medicine in New Zealand is the opportunity to gain practical experience after graduation — without the pressure of leaving the country immediately.

Here’s what you get:

Post Study Work Visa (Open) – Up to 3 Years

• Once you complete your MBChB degree, you are eligible to apply for a Post Study Work Visa for up to

  three years.

• This visa allows you to work full-time in any role relevant to your qualification.

• It gives you the chance to complete your internship years (PGY1 & PGY2) in New Zealand, which are essential to obtain general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

Studying MBBS in New Zealand (MBChB) offers more than just a medical degree — it gives you access to world-class education, meaningful clinical exposure, and strong post-study opportunities. Whether it’s the quality of training, the supportive student environment, or the global recognition of your qualification, New Zealand delivers a medical education that truly prepares you for the future.

If you’re serious about building a career in healthcare and want a well-rounded experience, New Zealand is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ques 1. Can international students study MBBS in New Zealand?

Ans: Yes, but they must first complete the Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) and then apply for the MBChB programme at the University of Auckland or University of Otago.

Ques 2. What is the duration of the MBChB programme in New Zealand?

Ans: It typically takes 6 years — including 1 year of Health Sciences, 2 years of pre-clinical study, and 3 years of clinical training.

Ques 3. Is MBBS from New Zealand recognised in India?

Ans: Yes, as long as the university is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. Indian students will need to clear the FMGE or NExT exam to practise in India.

Ques 4. What is the cost of studying medicine in New Zealand?

Ans: Tuition fees range from NZD 70,000–85,000 per year, with additional living expenses of NZD 20,000–25,000 per year.

Ques 5. Can I work while studying medicine in New Zealand?

Ans: Yes. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Ques 6. What happens after I finish the MBChB degree?

Ans: You can apply for a 3-year Post Study Work Visa, complete your required internships, and work in New Zealand as a doctor under supervision.

_{Updated on May 22, 2025}